Top 10 nature & wildlife things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1. Guided hiking tour in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Guided hiking tour exploring the park’s history and wildlife, customizable to your interests and abilities, available Sundays with potential for other bookings.

2. Polaris Slingshot rental for driving the Tail of the Dragon

Enjoy a thrilling drive on the Tail of the Dragon in a new Polaris Slingshot, tackling 318 curves over 11 miles.

3. Guided hike and painting class in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Four hours of guided hiking followed by an outdoor acrylic painting lesson in the serene landscapes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

4. Self-guided scenic drive in Great Smoky Mountains

Flexible drive along Newfound Gap Road with optional side trips—track the park's history through an audio tour while enjoying wildlife and mountain views.

5. Self-guided tour of the Great Smoky Mountains

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains at your own pace with stops at key sites, including Grotto Falls and Cades Cove.

6. Nature exploration activities for children in Great Smoky Mountains

An afternoon of hands-on nature activities — games, creek exploration, and tasting wild edibles in the Great Smoky Mountains.

“Brooke was amazing with my five-year-old daughter. She was very patient as my daughter counted the wildflowers that Brooke pointed out. They played a senses game, and she even let her taste some edible plants. Since we were the only ones on the walk, she was flexible with the start time, which suited us perfectly. We really enjoyed ourselves!”— travelingmariam

7. Polaris Slingshot rental in Great Smoky Mountains

Full-day rental of a Polaris Slingshot to explore the Great Smoky Mountains and surrounding areas at your own pace.

“I had a fantastic experience. This is a wonderful way to discover the parkway along with Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. I would highly recommend this outfitter.”— markgZ1996XZ

8. Historic River Town walk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Two hours guided walk through early 1900s town remnants along the Little River, led by a professional naturalist.

“Miss Debbie and the Historic River Town Ramble provided us with an unforgettable experience in the Smoky Mountains. While we appreciate the vibrancy of middle-Tennessee tourist towns, this was something almost otherworldly. The silence of the forest blending with the sound of the streams was captivating, and as Miss Debbie shared stories of the past, it felt as if we could glimpse the spirits of those who once inhabited these areas, lingering among the remnants.”— comunikat

9. Guided hiking tour of waterfalls and streams in Great Smoky Mountains

Moderate hike exploring white water cascades and hidden waterfalls, seasonal highlights include wildflowers and autumn foliage.

“Our group of seven, which included four adults and three kids aged 8 and up, had an amazing time on our hike with A Walk in the Woods. The guide was enthusiastic and very knowledgeable about the area, the park, and the wildlife. The hike was stunning, even in early spring. Although we went on two other hikes during our stay, hiring a guide for this one was definitely a worthwhile decision.”— 816eleanorl

10. Guided fall color hiking tour in the Smoky Mountains

Up to five hours of hiking with naturalist guides focusing on fall foliage and natural history in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“We joined Ken for a tour on October 8, and it was an excellent experience. After gathering at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, we drove briefly to the trailhead to begin our walk along the Little River. Ken shared his extensive knowledge about both the trail and the park, so we gained valuable insights. While we might have hiked alone, we would have missed out on the park's rich history. This tour is definitely worth it to understand how the Great Smoky Mountains became a National Park.”— Family P